(470) 912-2692 Get Quote

Car Shipping in Tennessee: 2026 Costs & Routes

Last updated: February 2026

Mike De Candia
Certified by:
Mike De Candia
Mike started working for SAKAEM in 2012 and has been successfully transporting cars ever since.
Pete Bottino
Sakaem is operated by:
Pete Bottino
Pete has been in the transportation industry for nearly 40 years and launched SAKAEM back in 2012.
The SAKAEM Price Match

We guarantee to match any price you find. We are experts at finding the best price for your shipment and getting the best value for your money.

ON THIS PAGE

1 Tennessee Car Shipping Overview
2 Top Destination States
3 Key Takeaways
4 Customer Testimonials
5 Why Choose SAKAEM?
6 Cost Factors
7 Tips to Save on Car Shipping
8 Moving to Tennessee?
9 Car Transport FAQs
STATE OVERVIEW

Car Shipping in Tennessee

Since 2012, Sakaem Logistics has fought the big‑broker monopoly to give you real value on car shipping and auto transport in Tennessee. Our scrappy, decade‑long experience and glowing reviews prove we know the route, the costs, and the paperwork. In this guide we break down everything you need to know—prices, popular destinations, tips—so your Tennessee move is clear and stress‑free.

Average Cost FROM Tennessee

$725 – $1,175
Based on recent shipments

Average Cost TO Tennessee

$775 – $1,250
Based on recent shipments

Top Destination States from Tennessee

1
California
669 shipments
$1,025 – $1,250
2
Florida
266 shipments
$650 – $825
3
Texas
248 shipments
$725 – $950
4
Washington
196 shipments
$1,250 – $1,600
5
Arizona
138 shipments
$1,000 – $1,225
TOP DESTINATIONS

Popular Destination States from Tennessee

The most common destination states for car shipping from Tennessee, showing average costs and popular city pairs. Data based on recent shipments handled by Sakaem Logistics’ verified carrier network.

Top 10 Destination States Updated: February 2026
Rank Destination State Avg Cost Range Popular Route
1 California $1,025 – $1,250 Nashville to San Diego
2 Florida $650 – $825 Nashville to Miami
3 Texas $725 – $950 Knoxville to Austin
4 Washington $1,250 – $1,600 Nashville to Seattle
5 Arizona $1,000 – $1,225 nashville to phoenix
6 Colorado $975 – $1,250 Nashville to Denver
7 New York $775 – $1,000 Cordova to East Meadow
8 Massachusetts $825 – $1,100 Franklin to Wareham
9 North Carolina $575 – $725 Collierville to Chapel Hill
10 Nevada $1,025 – $1,300 MEMPHIS to Las Vegas
TN CAR SHIPPING

Key Takeaways From This Article

TESTIMONIALS

What SAKAEM’s Customers are Saying

Google logo
I had my vehicle moved from Houston to Nashville TN by Sakeem. it was enclosed transport. they were very responsive, easy to work with and quickest delivery. they delivered my car with care. thank you Sakeem.
Dulguun Sereglen
Feb 2023
Google logo
I had a 5 star experience with SAKAEM! They secured a very reliable transport for 2 cars going from Tennessee to Colorado. All went off on time and without any curve balls.
Steve Turski
Jun 2023
Google logo
I had a 5 star experience with SAKAEM! They secured a very reliable transport for 2 cars going from Tennessee to Colorado. All went off on time and without any curve balls.
Steve Turski
Jun 2023
WHY CHOOSE SAKAEM?

Let us handle shipping your car in Tennessee

EXPERIENCE

Trust the experts with your car relocation. Years of experience mean your vehicle is well taken care of. A strong track record of safety and service lets you relax, knowing your car is in good hands.

TRANSPARENCY

Understand what your quote includes and the quality you’re paying for when shipping with a reputable carrier. Fair and transparent pricing lets you confidently book your car transport.

AFFORDABILITY

There are no upfront costs when booking. Don’t pay for your service until you receive it. Book your shipment and pay your deposit when the truck is dispatched for pickup.

PERSONALIZED

Have a team ready to assist you with a smooth shipping process. Our team aims to customize your booking to fit your individual needs while addressing your questions and concerns.

COMPREHENSIVE

Enjoy one point of contact from start to finish for a hassle-free shipping process. Your dedicated advisor will expertly guide you through each step for easy auto transport.

INSURED

All carriers are vetted through FMCSA for valid insurance. Trust our experts to select a safe, highly vetted carrier and deliver your vehicle securely to its destination.

KEY FACTORS

Factors that Affect Car Shipping Costs in Tennessee

Distance

Distance is the primary cost driver because fuel, driver time, and wear increase with miles. Longer trips require more resources, so rates rise proportionally. In Tennessee, shipping across the state is cheaper than coast‑to‑coast moves.

Season

Season influences pricing due to demand spikes. Summer and holiday periods see many relocations, pushing rates up, while winter’s lower volume often yields discounts. Shipping in Tennessee during off‑peak months can save money and offer more carrier options.

Route

Route matters because highways allow higher speeds and larger carriers, reducing fuel and labor costs. A major interstate from Nashville to Memphis is cheaper than winding rural roads or small coastal community routes, which increase travel time and expenses.

Vehicle Type

Vehicle type affects cost because size and weight dictate loading difficulty and fuel consumption. SUVs and trucks need stronger ramps and may require special equipment, raising fees, while standard cars fit easily on open trailers and are the cheapest to ship.

Traffic Considerations

Traffic considerations can add hidden costs. Shipping during peak travel times like the week before Thanksgiving leads to slower routes, higher fuel use, and possible driver overtime, which carriers may pass on as increased rates. Choose quieter windows for lower prices.

Carrier Availability

Carrier availability drives price and timing. In peak seasons, limited trucks mean longer wait times and higher quotes; in off‑season, more carriers compete, reducing costs and shortening lead times. Planning ahead lets you secure a carrier at a better rate.

Population Density

Population density influences pickup and delivery fees. Urban areas like Nashville have higher congestion and tighter parking, which can increase labor and time costs, while rural Tennessee locations often allow easier loading, resulting in lower charges.

TIPS & TRICKS

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

1

Off Season Savings

Shipping your car in Tennessee’s off‑season, such as late winter or early fall, often costs less. Even a few weeks away from peak snowbird travel can lower carrier rates significantly.

2

Flexible pickup & delivery

Choosing pickup or drop‑off points near major highways saves money, as carriers avoid slow neighborhood streets. Easy highway access reduces fuel and time, translating into lower shipping fees.

3

Hub city advantages

Select a Tennessee hub city close to interstates like Nashville or Knoxville; multiple highway connections give carriers more routing options, fostering competition and driving down your transport cost.

4

Weather considerations

Check Tennessee’s seasonal weather; extreme heat or winter storms can delay transport and raise costs. Planning around milder months helps keep your shipment on schedule and budget-friendly.

5

Booking in advance

Booking your Tennessee car shipment weeks ahead secures lower rates, as carriers have time to plan routes and fill trucks, avoiding last‑minute price spikes common with urgent bookings.

6

Open carrier transport

Open trailers are the most affordable option for standard vehicles. Use them unless you own a high‑value or classic car, which may justify the added protection of an enclosed trailer.

7

Flexible dates

If you allow a five‑day window for pickup and delivery, carriers can consolidate loads and choose the most efficient routes, often reducing your total shipping cost.

8

Compare quotes

Get multiple quotes from reputable auto transport companies to find the best deal for your Tennessee car shipping needs. We will match any competitor’s quote.

Moving Insights

Things to Know About Moving to/from Tennessee

Professional auto transport service for Tennessee moves

When you move to Tennessee, you must register your vehicle at the local county clerk within 30 days and bring the title, proof of identity, and a completed Application for Tennessee Title and Registration. A VIN inspection is performed on the spot, and the clerk issues a new Tennessee license plate and registration sticker [TN DMV].

Tennessee only requires emissions testing in 13 counties, including Davidson, Hamilton, Knox, and Shelby. If your car is registered in one of these areas, you’ll need a passing test every two years; the rest of the state has no emissions requirement [TDEC].

Window tint rules allow a minimum of 35% light transmission on the front side windows. Back side and rear windows may be darker, but reflective tint is prohibited. Violations can result in a fine and required removal of the tint [TN Code 55-8-401].

For drivers shipping a car to or from Tennessee, consider the weather. The eastern mountains can see snow and ice, so winter tires or chains are advisable. In the humid central region, rust‑proof undercoating helps protect the undercarriage during transport.

State insurance minimums are $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 per accident, and $15,000 for property damage. Proof of this coverage is required for registration, and many auto transport companies ask for insurance details before shipping a vehicle [TN Dept. of Commerce & Insurance].

By understanding Tennessee’s registration steps, emission zones, tint limits, and insurance rules, you can streamline your car shipping or auto transport experience and avoid costly delays.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Tennessee Vehicle Transport FAQs

Our team has been in the car shipping industry for a long time. We worked for some of the largest brokers and knew there was a better way to do things.

So we set out to create a company that would be different. We want to walk you through how the process works and we guarantee to match any price you hear from a competitor.

We’re a scrappy team that looks forward to earning your business.

Before your car is loaded in Tennessee, follow these simple steps to keep everything smooth and protect your vehicle.

1. Clean and inspect. Wash the exterior and take photos of any existing dents or scratches. This makes it easy to verify the condition when the car is delivered.

2. Remove personal items. Take out all loose objects, toll tags, GPS units, and anything that could shift or get damaged. The carrier is not liable for items left inside.

3. Secure accessories. Detach roof racks, bike carriers, spoilers, or any aftermarket parts that aren’t permanently attached. If they can’t be removed, make sure they’re tightly fastened.

4. Check fluids and battery. Ensure the gas tank is no more than a quarter full, and that oil, coolant, and brake fluid are at proper levels. The battery should be fully charged but you can also disconnect it if you prefer.

5. Provide a working key. Leave a set of keys (or a remote) with the driver so the carrier can unlock and move the vehicle if needed.

6. Review the paperwork. Sign the bill of lading, note any existing damage, and keep a copy for yourself.

For more detailed tips, see our Vehicle Shipping Tips page.

Yes. When you ship a vehicle with Sakaem Logistics in Tennessee, your car is covered by the carrier’s insurance. All carriers we work with must carry at least $1,000,000 in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance. Before a truck leaves the dock, we confirm that the policy is active and in good standing for the entire trip. If anything happens to your vehicle while it is in transit, the cargo insurance will cover the loss up to the policy limits.

Schedule early, ideally 2‑4 weeks ahead. The sooner you post your shipment, the more options you give carriers to bundle your vehicle with others traveling through Tennessee, which can keep rates low. During peak moving seasons (spring and summer) we suggest booking at least three weeks in advance. If you wait less than a week, you may face limited carrier availability and higher prices. In short, aim for a minimum of two weeks, and plan earlier if you can.

We accept all forms of payment. We can arrange credit cards or arrange for you to pay the carrier directly through cash/certified check. We even accept payment via Cash/Zelle/Venmo.

Your shipment with SAKAEM includes up to 100 lbs of personal items or household goods stored in the trunk area or secured below the window line. If your shipment includes ocean transit (Hawaii shipments), your vehicle must be emptied of all items. SAKAEM and your assigned carrier are not responsible for personal items left inside your vehicle. See our Auto Transport Process Article for more details.

A designated (adult) must be present at pickup and delivery. This designated person plays an important role in the shipping process including documenting the state of the vehicle and signing the Bill of Lading, which acts as a receipt of the vehicle’s condition.

Open transport uses a standard flat-bed trailer with multiple vehicles side-by-side. It is the most common and cost-effective method, typically 30-50% cheaper than enclosed. Vehicles are exposed to weather, road debris, and wind, but most cars arrive without damage.

Enclosed transport uses a fully covered trailer that shields the vehicle from elements, road grime, and stray stones. It is ideal for high-value, classic, or custom-paint cars. The protection adds about 40-60% more cost compared to open.

In Tennessee, both options are widely available. Choose open if you’re shipping a daily driver and want to save money. Choose enclosed if you need extra security for a collectible or a vehicle with a delicate finish.

Yes, Sakaem Logistics offers door-to-door auto transport throughout Tennessee. When you book, we ask for the exact pickup and delivery addresses you want. If the locations are accessible to a carrier, they will load your vehicle at your door and drop it off at the destination door. If a road, bridge, or safety restriction prevents a direct stop, the driver will arrange a nearby safe spot—such as a well-lit parking lot or a gas station—and keep you informed.

Our process is simple: you get a price quote, you confirm the dates, and we match you with a vetted carrier. The carrier handles all paperwork, insurance, and tracking, so you can relax while your car travels across the state.

Because we started in 2012 to give drivers a fair, affordable option, we keep costs low and service high. Our many positive reviews show that Tennessee customers trust us for reliable, door-to-door shipments.

We transport sedans, SUVs, pickup trucks, electric vehicles, vans and motorcycles across all 48 continental states + Hawaii. Our services even provide shipment for golf carts, ATVs, or RVs. We can ship vehicles that don’t run so long as the vehicle can roll, brake, and steer, and that you can provide the carrier with a key to the vehicle. The only exception is boats, which we do not transport.

Visit SAKAEM Logistics’ FAQ page to learn more about car shipping!

DID YOU KNOW?

Fun Facts About Tennessee

Discover interesting insights about the state you’re shipping to or from

Tennessee, the Volunteer State, offers a blend of natural beauty, musical heritage, and a thriving transport network—perfect for anyone shipping a car to or from its diverse regions.

  • Geography: Home to the Great Smoky Mountains, the most visited national park in the U.S., and the Mississippi River border, Tennessee’s terrain ranges from rolling hills to flat plains.
  • Cities & Landmarks: Nashville, the capital, is famed for country music, while Memphis boasts the historic Beale Street and the iconic Graceland estate.
  • History: Tennessee was the 16th state to join the Union (1796) and played a key role in the Civil War, with many preserved battlefields.
  • Vehicle Law: State law requires all vehicles to pass an annual safety inspection, and Tennessee offers a “no‑tax” registration for electric cars purchased after 2022.
  • Climate: The climate varies from humid subtropical in the west to milder mountain weather in the east, giving drivers a range of seasonal driving conditions.
  • Economy: A logistics hub, Tennessee hosts major auto manufacturers like Nissan and General Motors, plus a growing e‑commerce distribution sector.
  • Population: With over 6.9 million residents, the state’s population is diverse, featuring a strong mix of urban and rural communities.
  • Unique Feature: Tennessee is the only state with three distinct time zones—Eastern, Central, and a small portion of the western tip in Mountain time—so you’ll need to double‑check your route timing.
Car Shipping 101

How Auto Transport Works

Welcome to the car shipping 101 guide for Tennessee drivers. Whether you’re moving cross‑state or across the country, this quick rundown explains every step of auto transport.

First, understand the two main players: brokers and carriers. Brokers, like Sakaem Logistics, match you with a carrier – the company that actually moves the vehicle. Carriers own the trucks or trailers and handle the physical transport.

Step 1: Call a reputable broker to request a quote. Provide your pickup and delivery locations, vehicle details, and preferred timeline.

Step 2: The broker searches its network and selects a vetted carrier with solid reviews, proper insurance, and the right equipment for your car.

Step 3: The carrier schedules a pickup. On the agreed day, a driver arrives at your Tennessee address, inspects the vehicle, and loads it onto the trailer.

Step 4: The carrier transports your car to the destination. You can track progress online or receive updates from the broker.

Step 5: Payment is collected at pickup or delivery, depending on the agreement you made with the broker or carrier.

Tip: Choose an enclosed trailer for high‑end or classic cars. Enclosed transport protects against weather, road debris, and vandalism.

Tip: Remove all personal items, trash, and loose accessories before the driver arrives. This speeds loading and prevents damage or loss.

Tip: Ensure the car can roll. If the vehicle is stuck, the carrier may need additional equipment, which can delay shipping.

Tip: Keep about a quarter tank of gas in the vehicle. This provides enough fuel for loading ramps and any short moves during transport.

By following these simple steps and partnering with a trusted broker like Sakaem Logistics, Tennessee residents can enjoy a smooth, transparent car shipping experience from start to finish.